In a significant crackdown on fuel smuggling, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), under Operation Whirlwind, has intercepted 39,425 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and eight vehicles used for transportation, with a total duty-paid value of ₦63,425,000.
Addressing journalists at the Customs Training School in Ikeja, Lagos, the National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Kehinde Ejibunu, disclosed that the seizures occurred at key smuggling flashpoints including Ilaro, Imeko, Badagry, Owode, Ajilete, and nearby areas.
The confiscated fuel—1,577 jerrycans (25 litres each)—was allegedly being smuggled to neighbouring countries, particularly Benin Republic.
Ejibunu explained that the PMS was valued at ₦39.4 million, while the eight vehicles used were worth ₦24 million.
He reaffirmed the service’s commitment to eradicating economic sabotage, noting that there would be no safe haven for smugglers under the watch of the Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi.
To mitigate the impact and prevent hoarding, the seized PMS was auctioned to the public at a subsidised rate of ₦10,000 per 25 litres, following the CG’s directive.
Ejibunu also credited the success of the operation to the collaborative efforts of the Office of the National Security Adviser, Attorney General’s Office, and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).
